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Here’s how to have a wonderful winter weekend in Waterton

Photographer

Rhonda Steed

Here’s how to have a wonderful winter weekend in Waterton

Wed. Jan. 17/18

Karen Ung

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“Every time I drive into the park it's so breathtaking,” Pat Morris tells me on a sunny afternoon in Waterton Lakes National Park. Morris, has lived here for 18 months and is still in awe of the awesome landscape. I couldn’t agree more. In Alberta’s southernmost mountain park, jagged peaks rise dramatically from the prairies, wildlife wanders the streets, and recreational opportunities abound.

A mecca for hikers, Waterton had record numbers of visitors last summer. Winter, however, is a quiet time. “People who come love the solitude … and some come for the weekend and never leave their rooms,” says Morris, general Manager of Waterton Glacier Suites. After all, it’s easy to enjoy hygge (Danish for warm, cozy feeling) with a fireplace and jacuzzi tub in your room.

Video by Chris Wheeler Media.

If you would like to explore beyond your door, Parks Canada advises checking the What’s Open and Closed page so you can plan accordingly. While several areas are closed due to the Kenow fire, there’s still plenty to do on a winter weekend in the park.

Wildlife Viewing: You don’t have to go far to spot wildlife in Waterton. Deer and bighorn sheep frequent the townsite year round. Look for elk in the meadows past Hay Barn Day Use Area (closer to Alpine Stables) or Maskinonge Lookout. Spy swans in the water near the park gates or Maskinonge Lake (below Maskinonge Lookout). What about the bison? They were safely relocated during the fire and will be back in the Bison Paddock this summer.

Linnet Lake Loop is a good, short trail for a windy day as it’s tucked behind Prince of Wales Hill.

The lakeshore section of the Townsite Trailis beautiful any time of year. Start at Emerald Bay and make your way to the red chairs and Waterton Avenue cook shelters. Extension: Continue across the bridge to Cameron Bay Day Use and take Evergreen Avenue to Cameron Falls.

Stargazing: Waterton Lakes and Glacier National Parks have been recognized for its dark skies and named the first International Dark Sky Park. Cameron Bay, at the south end of Evergreen Avenue, is an excellent stargazing spot.

Mention: You can cross-country ski if you don’t mind breaking trail. Rentals available from Waterton Lakes Lodge Resort.

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Waterton Lakes National Park and I have been best friends for half a century. It was our go-to for camping as kids, our place for summer hikes, epic cross-country ski treks and a pitch or two of ice climbing. But now, it’s my private escape from the hubbub of life. It’s silent.